HE'S an explorer who is more used to being dropped off in some of the world's most dangerous environments.

But TV survival expert Bear Grylls' latest assignment was to pay a surprise visit to more than 1,500 Scouts in Nottingham.

The explorer, who is the organisation's Chief Scout, flew into the Chief Scout's Activity Day at the Harvey Hadden Sports Complex, Bilborough, on Saturday.

His helicopter was greeted by hundreds of cheering Scouts, and he took part in painting and craft activities with them.

Bear, who was joined by two of his sons, also tried out slack-lining – similar to tightrope walking – and the zip-wire, and joined youngsters on Spider Mountain, climbing up a 23ft-tall giant tube with horizontal webs of bungee.

He spent time talking to Scouts about their experiences, gave them navigation and orienteering tips, and tried some of the food being cooked by Explorer Scouts.

Hannah Nolan and Hannah Rolland, both 14, and of the 2nd Mansfield Explorer Scouts, were chosen to be Bear's guides for the day.

Hannah Nolan, of Mansfield, said: "I feel more myself when I'm at Scouts – we get to do lots of things you probably wouldn't get to do if you weren't a member."

Hannah Rolland, also of Mansfield, said: "Today has been really exciting. It has sometimes been a bit chaotic when people are around him, as everyone is so excited.

"We have been showing Bear the activities, and he has been really enthusiastic."

Before Bear left by helicopter he spent time signing Scouts' scarves and T-shirts.

He told the Post: "I drop in for a couple of hours and get around as many kids as possible to encourage them.

"It's the best job in the world – I get to fly around and meet people, and do stuff you never normally get to do in everyday life."

He added: "Scouting is growing faster than ever in its history and we need more adult volunteers so more people on the waiting lists for the Scouts can get into it. It is a great way for people to help out in their local community."

Matt Rooney, head of the Notts Scouts, said Bear's visit had topped off what was organisation's biggest-ever event staged in Notts.

He said: "I'm sure it is something the Scouts will remember for a long time to come. Bear embodies everything that scouting is about. It was great to see him leading from the front and taking part in the activities."